Advice Needed, Please

[mad hatter]

Hello, all. I'm wanting to do something I've never done before-install an amplifier. I could use some help in selecting an appropriate model and some wiring advice.

First, I'll give you the details on what I have. I have an Android head unit. I'm sure it's not the choice for the best of sound systems but I value it for the productivity features. Early this year I replaced the four factory speakers with some DS-series Kickers that were recommended. The specs are:

Front Doors: 6X9; 2-90W RMS, 360W peak
Rear Doors: 6.5"; 2-60W RMS, 240W peak

Everything sounds better than the stock Dodge setup, but I think it's not performing to potential. To that end, I have a set of speakers to go in the dash; again, DS-series Kickers.

Dash: 6-15W RMS, 30W peak

I would like to have modest amplification as this is a work vehicle (Ram Quad Cab, to be exact). I don't know I need a sub-woofer but I really don't like that effect-however, I defer to those experienced in such.

I *think* the way it goes is one runs RCA cables from the head unit to an amplifier and from there back to the speakers. And from reading, one can use a line-output converter or run new wires. I would rather run new wires; I've been into the door cavities and under the flooring before for other stuff, so it's not a problem.

What I'd like to know is:

1) What type of amplifier would one suggest for a moderate but noticeable gain?

2) How would I deal with the dash speakers? They are rather smaller.

3) The channel issue. This may provide the answer for #2, but I'm not sure if channels are F/R, L/R or for individual speakers.

4) An appropriate gauge wire for the speakers to the amplifier.

5) Am I missing anything?

I believe I have the RCA jacks for the amplifier. but they are shown as for headrest monitors. If I can, I'll attach a picture of the wiring diagram from the HU.

I know this is a lot to dump for a first post. I thank you in advance for any suggestions and please let me know if there's anything else you need to know.

Thanks again.

 

[WaynePflughaupt]

5) Am I missing anything?

This is a forum for home theater enthusiasts, unless the latest trend is installing speakers in doors...

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

 

[pewternhrata]

A Dodge ram forum more than likely it will have a section for car audio for your truck. you will get all kinds of opinions from users and what worked best for them.
1) I'm a huge fan of Alpine
2)small speakers in the dash, I would assume are tweeters, ran off a factory xover with the door speakers
4) 12gauge wire always worked for me. 14gauge should work without a problem as well and it's going to be easier to run and hide.

I'd highly recommend a sub, even its just an 8" open air design. without component speakers, you are lacking on the low end (may be why you feel it's not at its potential)

If I were you, I would keep what you have, get a mono block amp and a 10" sub. with a properly set up sub, you should hear a huge difference in overall quality. and no, you don't want a sub that's rattling your car apart.

 

[mad hatter]

This is a forum for home theater enthusiasts, unless the latest trend is installing speakers in doors...

Regards,
Wayne A. Pflughaupt

Oops..Well, how I got here was in researching things I saw amplifiers have type designations; that is, A/AB/D/etc. I searched for what those types indicated and this was the first link it brought up.

I didn't even go into sub-forums given my lack of knowledge. I might've intuited that, other wise. My apologies.

 

[mad hatter]

A Dodge ram forum more than likely it will have a section for car audio for your truck. you will get all kinds of opinions from users and what worked best for them.
1) I'm a huge fan of Alpine
2)small speakers in the dash, I would assume are tweeters, ran off a factory xover with the door speakers
4) 12gauge wire always worked for me. 14gauge should work without a problem as well and it's going to be easier to run and hide.

I'd highly recommend a sub, even its just an 8" open air design. without component speakers, you are lacking on the low end (may be why you feel it's not at its potential)

If I were you, I would keep what you have, get a mono block amp and a 10" sub. with a properly set up sub, you should hear a huge difference in overall quality. and no, you don't want a sub that's rattling your car apart.

Thank you. That's good intuition on what's lacking and how to amend it.

I may take my chances and go to a car audio store, despite the ricer cars and brotrucks.